Marine and boat batteries: Your reliable energy companion on the water

Which battery is the right one for your boat?

Different types of batteries are suitable depending on the tasks that the marine battery has to perform on your boat. Basically, it can be said in advance that wet batteries are unsuitable for use on the water - they are not leak-proof and therefore pose a risk to people and the environment, especially in heavy seas. Leak-proof AGM and GEL batteries are much better suited for this purpose and are also maintenance-free. GEL marine batteries are the ideal power source for all on-board electronics, navigation equipment and other devices on board. If the battery is not only intended to supply electrical consumers, but also to start the engine, you should opt for an AGM marine battery.

The world of boat batteries: An overview of the technologies

GEL batteries: The robust solution for supply applications

GEL marine batteries use a gelled electrolyte, which makes them leak-proof and maintenance-free. They allow flexible installation (except overhead). Their strength lies in the continuous current output for the on-board power supply over longer periods of time and they exhibit good behavior during deep discharge, making them ideal as an on-board battery. They are less suitable for short-term, high currents. These properties make GEL boat batteries ideal for a wide range of supply applications.
GEL batteries in detail: Your benefits for long trips and seasonal use
GEL boat batteries are maintenance-free, leak-proof, have low self-discharge and high cycle stability. They are well suited for deep discharges and are robust. GEL marine batteries are therefore often used as yacht batteries.

The most important strengths of GEL batteries:
  Maintenance-free
  Leak-proof
  Low self-discharge
  High cycle stability
  Good deep discharge capability
  Robust and vibration-resistant

Their low self-discharge is ideal for seasonal use and long service life. The higher internal resistance contributes to slower discharge. GEL marine batteries are often used as supply batteries for on-board electronics, cool boxes and pumps.

AGM batteries: The powerful all-rounder for starting and consumption

AGM marine batteries bind the electrolyte in a glass fiber fleece and are also leak-proof with flexible installation. They combine the advantages of GEL and wet batteries, deliver high discharge rates for starting applications and are characterized by low self-discharge and fast charging. AGM boat batteries can be discharged deeper than GEL batteries (up to 50%), but frequent deep discharges can shorten their service life.
AGM batteries: Your reliable partner for frequent use and winter conditions
AGM boat batteries are maintenance-free, leak-proof and offer high starting performance. They have good cycle stability, are robust and have a low self-discharge rate. They also perform well at low temperatures. Many modern boats are equipped with AGM marine batteries.

The outstanding properties of AGM batteries:
  Maintenance-free and leak-proof
  High starting performance
  Good cycle stability
  Robust and shock-resistant
  Low self-discharge
  Good performance at low temperatures

Their good cycle stability and performance in cold conditions make them ideal for frequently used boats and winter operation. The fast charging process is a further advantage. AGM batteries for boats are used as starter batteries and for powerful consumers such as bow thrusters. AGM batteries are versatile in boats and are also ideal as dual-purpose batteries if the battery has to both start the engine and supply some electrical consumers.

Wet batteries: Why they should be viewed critically in the boating sector

Wet batteries are critical in the boating sector, as the liquid electrolyte can leak out during movement and cause damage. They require regular maintenance (topping up with water) and gas is produced during charging, which requires good ventilation. In comparison, GEL and AGM boat batteries offer clear advantages here.